Balbirnie: “I was more annoyed than anything about getting hit”

DUBLIN – Irish international Andy Balbirnie has had a big year so far, however a rearing delivery from West Indian Shannon Gabriel in the last one-day international had him thanking the manufacturer of modern-day batting helmets.

Speaking from the team hotel in Dublin ahead of tomorrow’s encounter with Bangladesh, Balbirnie said:

“I think the West Indies game was hugely disappointing, particularly after running England close last Friday. We just didn’t show up and couldn’t string many partnerships together with bat and ball. I think it’s important we look at areas we can improve and quickly look to rectify them this week in training.”

Asked about the incident with Gabriel when struck on the helmet and forced to retire hurt, he said:

“I feel fine now, and even at the time I was more annoyed that I couldn’t bat for about 40 minutes, as I thought I was moving quite well - but that’s how it goes. I’m just glad the helmet did its job - thank you Masuri!”

Image: West Indies players check on Balbirnie after he was hit

Asked about how he is preparing for the next match against Bangladesh, he said:

“I just like to focus in the nets on my strengths and particularly working on my first 20 balls and how best to combat the toughest period of batting. It’s about not over-complicating things - keeping it simple. We also have footage available of all their bowlers which gives us an idea of what to expect.”

While the Irish international side was battling the West Indies on Sunday, across town at The Hills Cricket Club the Ireland Wolves were faring better in a warm-up match against Bangladesh. Speaking about the Wolves win, Balbirnie said:

“It was a great win. The Wolves set-up is brilliant and one that needs to develop and play more games because it gives the emerging players a taste of what to expect if selected for the national team. It also means more games of top quality cricket, because as it stands there isn’t enough fixtures in domestic cricket for guys to impress as much as they’d like.”

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